Shanghai International Circuit

The Shanghai International Circuit is built around a distinctive signature: a long, tightening opening spiral that winds through Turns 1, 2 and 3 before unwinding again, working the front tyres hard and testing a driver's patience. Later the lap opens into an enormous back straight that feeds one of the heaviest braking zones anywhere, a natural overtaking spot. Looking after the front tyres through those long corners is the key to the whole lap.

It is one of the landmark modern circuits, a bold design with vast grandstands and a layout that rewards a car able to look after its rubber and still brake hard at the end of the straight. The contrast between the slow, patient spiral and the flat-out straight makes it a satisfying and revealing lap.